Role Overview for Chief Technology Officer – AI-Native Fintech Scale-Up | Miami, FL
As the Chief Technology Officer (CTO), you will be the senior-most technology executive, reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO). You will be a core member of the C-suite, responsible for the entire technology vision, strategy, and execution that underpins the company’s ambitious goals. This role demands a unique blend of deep technical expertise, strategic business acumen, and inspirational leadership. You will be responsible for scaling the engineering organization, architecting a world-class technology platform, and fostering a culture of innovation, excellence, and rapid execution. Your leadership will be instrumental in ensuring our client’s platform is not only technologically superior but also scalable, secure, and compliant with the stringent demands of the financial industry. You will be the visionary who sees the future of AI in finance and builds the roadmap to get there.
Key Responsibilities of Chief Technology Officer – AI-Native Fintech Scale-Up | Miami, FL
Your duties will be broad and impactful, encompassing leadership, strategy, and execution. Success in this role will be measured by your ability to build a high-performing team, deliver a robust and innovative technology platform, and contribute to the company’s overall strategic success.
Technology Vision and Strategy
Develop and articulate a compelling long-term technology vision and strategy that aligns with and drives the company’s business objectives. Proactively research and champion emerging technologies, particularly in AI/ML, to create a sustainable competitive advantage.
Leadership and Team Scaling
Lead, mentor, and expand a world-class, multi-disciplinary engineering organization, including software development, data science, machine learning, platform engineering, and cybersecurity. Foster a dynamic, inclusive, and high-performance culture that attracts and retains top-tier talent.
Architectural Excellence
Oversee the design, development, and evolution of a highly scalable, resilient, and secure microservices-based architecture. Make critical decisions on technology stacks, frameworks, and infrastructure to support rapid growth and product innovation.
AI and Machine Learning Innovation
Drive the AI/ML roadmap, from model research and development to production deployment and ongoing optimization. Champion best practices in MLOps, data governance, and the ethical application of artificial intelligence.
Execution and Delivery
Implement and refine agile development methodologies, CI/CD pipelines, and DevOps practices to ensure the timely and high-quality delivery of product features and platform enhancements. Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for the technology organization.
Cybersecurity and Compliance
Own the company’s overall security posture, implementing robust security protocols and practices to protect sensitive customer data. Ensure the platform adheres to all relevant financial regulations and compliance standards (e.g., SOC 2, PCI DSS, GDPR).
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Work in close partnership with the Chief Product Officer, Chief Operating Officer, and other executive leaders to ensure seamless alignment between technology development and business strategy.
Budget and Vendor Management
Develop and manage the technology department’s budget, ensuring efficient allocation of resources. Lead vendor negotiations and manage relationships with third-party technology providers and partners.
Stakeholder Communication
Effectively communicate the technology strategy, roadmap, and performance to the executive team, Board of Directors, investors, and other key stakeholders.
Requirements for the Chief Technology Officer – AI-Native Fintech Scale-Up | Miami, FL
We are seeking a seasoned and visionary leader with a demonstrated history of technical excellence and strategic impact. The ideal candidate will possess the following qualifications:
Executive Experience
A minimum of 15 years of experience in software engineering and technology, with at least 5-7 years in a senior leadership capacity (e.g., CTO, VP of Engineering) within a high-growth, venture-backed technology company.
Domain Expertise
Prior experience in the fintech or financial services sector is strongly preferred. A deep understanding of the unique technical and regulatory challenges of the industry is crucial.
AI/ML Acumen
Proven experience leading teams that have built and deployed sophisticated AI and machine learning systems at scale. You should be fluent in modern AI concepts, including LLMs, deep learning, and predictive analytics.
Technical Depth
Extensive hands-on experience with modern, cloud-native architectures (AWS, GCP, or Azure), containerization (Docker, Kubernetes), microservices, and serverless computing. You should be able to command the respect of a highly technical engineering team.
Scaling Leadership
Demonstrable experience scaling an engineering organization through rapid growth phases (e.g., from 50 to 200+ engineers). Proven ability to recruit, develop, and retain exceptional talent.
Strategic Mindset
The ability to think strategically and translate business needs into a clear, actionable technology roadmap. You must be able to balance long-term strategic initiatives with short-term execution needs.
Security and Governance
A strong grasp of cybersecurity principles and data governance frameworks. A deep understanding of AI Trust, Risk and Security Management (AI TRiSM) principles is essential for navigating the complex regulatory landscape.
Exceptional Communication
Outstanding verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences, including board members and investors.
Education
A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related technical field is required. An MBA or other advanced degree is a plus.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client believes in rewarding their leaders for their contributions and offers a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation package designed to attract the very best talent. This includes:
Executive Compensation
A highly competitive base salary and performance-based annual bonus.
Meaningful Equity
A substantial equity grant (stock options) that provides a significant stake in the company’s success.
Comprehensive Health Coverage
Premium medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your dependents.
Retirement Planning
A 401(k) plan with a generous company match to help you plan for your future.
Flexible Time Off
An unlimited Paid Time Off (PTO) policy, promoting a healthy work-life balance.
Relocation Support
A comprehensive relocation package for candidates moving to the vibrant Miami area.
Professional Growth
A dedicated budget for professional development, including conferences, certifications, and executive coaching.
State-of-the-Art Office
A modern, collaborative workspace located in the heart of Miami’s burgeoning tech scene.
How to Apply
This is a retained search being conducted exclusively by JRG Partners. We are seeking a truly exceptional leader to fill this pivotal role and help guide our client to market leadership. If you are a visionary technology executive with the experience and passion to build the future of AI in finance, we encourage you to apply.
To be considered for this transformative leadership opportunity, please visit our AI-Native CTO & CIO Executive Search Practice Area page and submit your application and resume. We are committed to a confidential and thorough review process and will be in touch with qualified candidates promptly.
